PM congratulates William and Kate

Prime Minister David Cameron has hailed the engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton as "a great day for our country".

He also revealed that the Prince was "thrilled" when he rang him to pass on his congratulations.

Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, Mr Cameron said: "A great day for our country, a great day for the Royal family and obviously a great day for Prince William and for Kate."

He added: "It is incredibly exciting news and I'm sure that the whole country will want to pass their very best wishes to the happy couple, and wish them an incredibly long and happy life together."

Commons Speaker John Bercow led congratulations in Parliament to the couple following news of their engagement.

Before Treasury question time, the Speaker said the Commons wished them "all the very best for their future together". Chancellor George Osborne and shadow chancellor Alan Johnson also joined in the congratulations.

The Prime Minister said he was handed a piece of paper informing him about the engagement during Tuesday morning's Cabinet meeting. The ministers gave a "great cheer" and banged the table when he told them the news.

Describing the engagement as "unadulterated good news", the Prime Minister predicted that the whole country would come together to enjoy next year's Royal wedding. He also revealed that he slept on the Mall on the night of the wedding of William's parents, Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales.

Labour leader Ed Miliband said: "I'm delighted for Prince William and Kate Middleton and send them my very best for their wedding. The whole country will be wishing them every happiness."

Earl Spencer, William's uncle and the brother of Diana, said in a statement: "It's wonderful news. Very exciting. My family are all thrilled for them both."